Earthwise Aware at the Growing Center

Earthwise Aware (EwA) project questions are centered around working toward a better understanding of the timing and life stage changes (phenology) within species, phenological comparisons among species, and the relationship of phenological stages between species, particularly as they relate to changes in weather and climate. As part of the effort to address these inquiries, EwA conducts weekly surveys and collects data to contribute to follow the phenology of woody and herbaceous perennial species, the presence of pollinating species, and the specific interactions of important pollinators and their plant hosts at the Growing Center. 

To date, for 2025, EwA participatory scientists have collected over 14,000 data points that reflect the phenophase (life stage) on 9 native tree species and 11 native herbaceous perennials, and phenophase and behavior of 13 important bee and butterfly species. In addition, EwA collects in-depth data using the EwA Buggy app, recording precise interactions between various pollinating species and the host plants that they visit. The team logged ~300 of these interactions in July alone!

One of our favorite observations made during our monitoring this summer was a female monarch (Danaus plexipess), laying eggs on common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca). Seeing this iconic, vital pollinator is always a thrill! Images below show this adult female and a caterpillar.

A monarch caterpillar tucked safely under, and feeding on, a young milkweed leaf (left) and a female monarch perched on an unripe seed pod of a common milkweed (left) and. Photo credits: Kristian Demary and Jennifer Clifford. 

Read EwA’s latest report of ongoing work at the Growing Center: Exploring Climate's Influence on Pollinator-Plant Dynamics. For more on participatory science at Earthwise Aware, visit this StoryMap.